Fried Calamari Recipe

Directions

1. 1

   Prepare the Calamari

   Rinse the calamari rings under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.

2. 2

   Make the Breading Station

   In three separate bowls, set up your breading station. In the first bowl, place the all-purpose flour. In the second bowl, whisk the eggs until well-beaten. In the third bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, cornstarch, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.

3. 3

   Bread the Calamari

   Take each calamari ring and coat it first in the flour, shaking off any excess. Then dip it into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off. Finally, coat the calamari in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly to adhere the breadcrumbs.

4. 4

   Heat the Oil

   In a large, deep skillet or pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 180°C (350°F). You can test if the oil is ready by dropping in a small piece of bread; if it sizzles and browns quickly, the oil is hot enough.

5. 5

   Fry the Calamari

   Carefully add the breaded calamari rings to the hot oil in batches. Fry for about 2-3 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. Be careful not to overcrowd the pan, as this can lower the oil temperature.

6. 6

   Drain and Serve

   Once cooked, remove the calamari from the oil using a slotted spoon and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve hot with marinara sauce on the side for dipping.